Although HTC has yet to confirm my assumption, I assume that the Nexus S, which debuted with Gingerbread, will be among the first to receive the Android 4.0 upgrade.

But beyond the "Pure Google" phones, it's hard to forecast which handsets will see Ice Cream Sandwich. HTC, for its part, is already looking into the new release and is working to come up with a plan for updates.

Shortly after Android 4.0 was announced, HTC issued a formal statement on the new build, advising it would provide details in time.

"We are excited about the latest update for Android, Ice Cream Sandwich, and are currently reviewing its features and functionality to determine our upgrade plans," the statement said. "Our goal for Android updates is to give every customer an improved user experience, which means balancing each phone's unique hardware, HTC Sense experience and the Android kernel. While our goal is to upgrade as many of our recent devices as possible, we are committed to maintaining every phone's performance and usability first."

Of all the major smartphone manufacturers, HTC possesses one of the bigger challenges for issuing timely updates. While the Sense UI provides a number of unique features for Android users, it's nonetheless a manufacturer skin. And generally speaking, the more a handset maker influence a company puts into the interface, the longer it takes for development and update cycles.

History tells us that HTC will likely support its latest devices first and then work backward a bit. Newer phones such as the Sensation 4G, Evo 3D, and Amaze 4G likely will be a priority.

Other popular models such as the Evo 4G and G2 could see Android 4.0, but I wouldn't hold my breath if I were a Droid Incredible or Aria owner. Those models may just be a little too old.

About the author

Scott Webster has spent the better part of his adult life playing with cell phones and gadgets. When not looking for the latest Android news and rumors, he relaxes with his wife and son. Scott also is the senior editor for AndroidGuys. E-mail Scott.
See full bio